MMA area is blocked for the construction of a ferry terminal: City Council

Male’ City Council has said today that the area in front of Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) where protesters have gathered for several consecutive nights is blocked for the construction of a ferry terminal.

Fences have been put up all the way from new local market up to MMA building, with a space of about three feet to allow entry into the building. Half of the road in front of MTCC building is also blocked.

Male’ City Deputy Mayor Ahmed Samah Rasheed said today that the decision to build a terminal in the area had been made some time ago, and that fences are being put up now as a result of the approval of the budget for this work. He said that no contracts have yet been made for the building of this terminal.

“The area is blocked for the construction of a ferry terminal. This will make things easier for people, as it will include a waiting area and washrooms. The construction of this terminal has been planned for a long time. The work begins now because the budget is approved,” Samah said. “Contracts have not been made with any party. We [City Council employees] are carrying out the work ourselves.” Samah said that this project be completed in about six months.

Several groups suspect that this is an act to obstruct the protests held in this area every night. The City Council began setting up the fences last night while the protest was ongoing. In addition, blocking this area has increased traffic congestion as this is one of the busiest areas in Male’.